12 Incredible Restaurants in Alexandria, VA You Need to Try

Blake Walsh

Sep 18, 2023 • 7 min read

Alexandria, Virginia masterfully combines historical charm with contemporary flair. Its rich colonial backdrop houses a burgeoning culinary scene that captivates both residents and tourists. The city's myriad dining choices, from high-end to homey, position it as a top destination for gastronomes.

💡

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the following individuals for their invaluable contributions to this article: Victoria Williams, Stephen Davis, Ginger Burns, Georgiana Durbin, Carolyn Kaminski, Barbara Lozano and Susan Fitts.

Le Refuge

Le Refuge is an unexpected culinary treasure nestled in the heart of Old Town Alexandria. This delightful French bistro exudes the warmth and charm of provincial France. The intimate setting features simple decor that echoes the coziness of the sincerely friendly staff and excellent food.

The menu offers French classics with an American twist that deliver exceptional flavors diners crave again and again. The impressive duck breast emerges tender, juicy and expertly cooked. Meanwhile, the profiteroles finish the meal on the perfect sweet note.

Due to Le Refuge's popularity, reservations are highly recommended to secure a table and fully enjoy the charming ambience during any dining occasion from date nights to family gatherings.

The Tasting Room

The contemporary Tasting Room lies in a historic building on King Street, serving elevated farm-to-table pub fare in a bright, inviting space. The menu intrigues with its variety and creativity.

Delectable dishes like the salmon rillettes and the fresh, expertly cooked salmon salad satisfy cravings and delight the senses. The Tasting Room offers an overall promising culinary experience in both food and setting.

Landini Brothers Restaurant

Landini Brothers Restaurant in Old Town transports diners to Italy through its charming interior, patio seating, and authentic cuisine. The dim lighting and brick walls create an elegant yet warm atmosphere perfect for lingering over meals with loved ones.

Diners consistently relish Landini's traditional dishes bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. From succulent shrimp to hearty pastas, sweet desserts and more, the menu is a feast showcasing Italy's flavors. However, it is the exceptional service that makes Landini Brothers a jewel of Alexandria dining. The knowledgeable, caring staff ensures every customer feels well taken care of.

Laporta's Restaurant

The trio of jazz, pasta, and seafood blends into pure magic at Old Town's Laporta's Restaurant. Live jazz creates a lively mood as diners indulge in irresistible dishes like the seafood crepe with unforgettable flavors. Non-seafood options like the steak and mushroom pasta also satisfy.

Sweet endings include pecan pie with a memorable crust and a legendary carrot cake. But it is the incredible hospitality seen in enthusiastic staff like Joe that makes the Laporta's experience special. It's a meal and an evening to savor.

The Majestic

The Majestic is a charming find in Alexandria, much like stepping into a classy, updated diner offering refined comfort food. From the warm decor to dishes innovatively fusing flavors like the Brisket Omelet, The Majestic delights tastebuds with its cuisine and invites lingering in its cozy atmosphere.

Service remains a highlight as knowledgeable, friendly staff like James elevate the experience by catering to customers with care. Whether dining with family or trying this gem as a new restaurant destination, The Majestic promises a memorable and delicious evening.

Vermilion

Vermilion provides extraordinary dining in Alexandria through its curated tasting menus expertly paired with wines. The staff treats customers like royalty in the refined yet welcoming space. Their attention to detail ensures a remarkable night from start to finish. Vermilion offers New American cuisine with locally-sourced twists that broaden diners' horizons.

Dishes from starters like the pan con tomate to mains including duck and prime rib leave an impression with bold, elegant flavors. For milestone occasions or simply for a well-deserved indulgence, Vermilion's gastronomic journey leaves you longing for more.

Hank's Oyster Bar

Hank's Oyster Bar, an inviting New England-style seafood destination in Old Town, delights seafood aficionados with its warm hospitality and fresh catches. During Alexandria Restaurant Week, Hank's three-course menu offers an affordable taste of top menu items like the stellar seafood fettuccine.

Hank's friendly staff provide efficient service even on busy nights so customers can fully enjoy the star seafood like the must-try oysters alongside tasty steak options. The restaurant also impresses with its accessibility, featuring a convenient ramp entrance. Overall, Hank's renowned fare and service make it a foolproof option for seafood in Old Town.

City Kitchen

Travel America's culinary landscape without leaving Alexandria at City Kitchen. This inviting gastropub features an industrial-chic interior and menu spanning the nation including the standout City Burger cooked just right.

While the Union Square Market salad offers freshness, City Kitchen's strength remains its friendly, talented bartenders concocting creative drinks. Alongside its comfort food and neighborhood vibe, City Kitchen provides an easily accessible all-American experience.

Vaso's Kitchen

Hidden in a serene Alexandria neighborhood lies Vaso's Kitchen, a warm Greek oasis. Transporting diners to a taverna through its cozy ambiance and aromas, Vaso's hospitable staff make customers feel like regulars.

Diners consistently praise Greek favorites like the gyro platters and chicken Margherita along with must-tries like the baklava. Vaso's Kitchen offers a comforting taste of community alongside its mouthwatering Mediterranean fare.

Ada's on the River

Ada's on the River treats diners to fine dining and tranquil Potomac River views. The brightly lit interior exudes a welcoming atmosphere, while the patio provides refreshing scenery.

Ada's concise yet outstanding menu offers expertly crafted dishes ranging from the ever-popular crab cakes to the perfect pork chop. Pairing these culinary delights with Ada's specialty cocktails makes for a sublime dining experience accented by Alexandria's natural beauty. No reservations are required to savor this riverside gem.

Oak Steakhouse

Oak Steakhouse provides exceptional service that transforms dining into memories. The staff makes guests feel at home the moment they're seated. Wining and dining reach new heights through the expansive wine and beer list alongside masterfully prepared steaks like the dry aged ribeye.

Sides such as the crowd-pleasing mac and cheese complement the top-quality meats. Josella and the Oak Steakhouse team embody how thoughtful service amplifies an already outstanding meal into a truly special evening.

Mia's Italian Kitchen

Mia's Italian Kitchen welcomes guests with cozy ambiance and mouthwatering aromas in the heart of Alexandria. The warm staff make diners feel like family as they enjoy freshly made pastas and wood-fired pizzas bursting with flavor.

Dishes like their beloved zucchini fries keep guests returning, while great menu suggestions from knowledgeable servers like Rachel make first-timers feel at home. For authentic Italian fare and hospitality, Mia's Italian Kitchen is the perfect destination.

💌

Spotted a mistake, have some feedback, or just want to chat with our editorial team? Click here to get in touch.

✍️

Find out more about Travel Lens and read our editorial guidelines here.